Characterization of adobe bricks used in developing countries: Mexico as a case of study

In Mexico adobe masonry is a traditional building material common in rural areas with low economic development and a high degree of marginalization. In addition, a growing interest in adobe masonry is noticed in two ways: for rescuing the heritage and as a rediscovered environmentally friendly building material. The problems are found of how to carry out the conservation works of the great built heritage with this material, as well as the lack of skilled people at all levels, from designer to masons, because it is a forgotten technique. Hence, some recent investigations about the obtention of adobe mechanical properties and characterization of adobe bricks, including earth blocks, have been performed. This article investigates experimentally destructive and nondestructive tests used for this purpose, especially elastic mechanical properties, considering new sensors, systems and different techniques has led to the inspection of adobe bricks. The results show, compared destructive with nondestructive methods, a good correlation between both techniques. This study contributes towards a better understanding of the elastic mechanical properties of adobe bricks built in Mexico, considered as a developing country.